Just when Ann and John Espley thought they’d finally get the relaxing break they deserved, a massive skip filled with rubble threw a wrench into their plans—literally parked right across their driveway.
After enduring years of delays due to health issues and the pandemic, the elderly couple from Longton near Stoke were finally ready to enjoy a peaceful getaway.
Instead, they’ve found themselves trapped at home by a skip that just won’t budge.
Renovation Plans Turn into a Standoff
Back in March, the Espleys brought in the skip as part of a home improvement project.
They were having their bathroom completely redone, and the plumber arranged the skip from Staffordshire Waste Recycling Centre.
It was supposed to be a straightforward job—fill it up, have it collected, and move on.
But three months have passed, and the skip is still sitting stubbornly in front of their house, overflowing with construction debris.
To make matters worse, the waste company’s permit was suspended by the Environment Agency, leaving the skip stranded and the couple stuck.
No Answers, No Action, and Mounting Frustration
Despite numerous calls to the company and even reaching out to the local council, Ann and John have hit a wall.
Neither the plumber who ordered the skip nor the couple themselves have managed to get through to anyone who can help.
“My plumber’s tried everything—visits, phone calls, even emails. It’s just radio silence,” Ann, 76, explained.
“The council says there’s nothing they can do either. We’re stuck, and there’s nothing we can legally do to remove it ourselves.”
Everyday Life Now a Struggle
The skip has created more than just an eyesore—it’s become a real burden.
The Espleys are now forced to park their car on the street, while their son has to use a neighbour’s driveway.
Taking the bins out has become a team effort involving lifting them over the skip just to get them to the curb.
“It’s exhausting,” Ann said. “And not exactly safe when you’re in your seventies.”
Travel Plans Put on Hold… Again
This summer was supposed to be a turning point.
With lockdowns behind them and their health more stable, Ann and John were eager to get away on one of their usual coach holidays.
But with the skip still blocking access, they don’t dare leave.
“If someone finally shows up to remove it while we’re gone, and we’ve parked in the way, we’ll miss our one shot at getting rid of it,” Ann said.
“Plus, we’re worried someone might toss even more rubbish into it while we’re away.”
Others Affected Too, But No Solution in Sight
The Espleys aren’t the only ones caught in this mess.
Their son’s friend has reportedly had a skip from the same company stuck on his property since January.
At this point, Ann says she’s just glad they hadn’t actually booked a holiday yet. “We’d have lost money on top of everything else.”
Waiting Game with No End Date
Each morning, the couple step outside hoping the nightmare has ended.
“We say to each other, ‘Will it be gone today?’ And every time—it’s still there,” Ann sighed.
She just wants her normal life back.
“If they can’t collect the skips, then what’s the plan? It’s not just us—it’s everyone who’s been left like this. I just want it gone.”
Waste Firm Blames Regulatory Issues
The Staffordshire Waste Recycling Centre’s website currently warns of collection delays and advises customers not to involve third-party operators to avoid legal issues.
They insist they’re working to resolve the problem while staying compliant with regulations.
According to the Environment Agency, the company is storing more waste than its permit allows—and in a way that could cause serious pollution.
This breach led to the suspension of one of their permits, and they’re now being pushed to reduce waste levels on-site.
What Happens Now?
As for Ann and John, they remain stuck in limbo—holiday plans cancelled, driveway blocked, and no real help in sight.
Until the skip is finally removed, they’ll be spending every day hoping today is the day something changes.
And for now? It’s still just sitting there.